Allergies can affect any individual, any time. The factors that lead to the breakout of allergies lie hidden around us, but we can hardly identify them. The catalysts behind allergic reactions can range from simple indoor items to pets to your favorite clothing. Thus, the world of allergies is a mystery and it is really difficult to pin point a definite cause for allergies. Here is an attempt to unravel seven most surprising facts about allergies that will be beneficial for you.
1. Scented candles can play havoc
Scented candles score over the ordinary ones as they impart exotic essences like that of cinnamon, rose, vanilla, lavender, etc. So, how you ever think of discarding them altogether from your home? But a surprising fact about these candles is that they cause allergies. They act as irritants for those who are already suffering from allergy or have sensitivity towards certain chemicals. The melting of the wax and the imparted essence creates a reaction that stimulates the allergens and thus, few people suffer, without even the slightest hint of the culprit behind the outbreak.
2. Your feathered bed is the criminal
Have you ever given it a thought why the princely, feathered beds that we have grown up hearing about, are getting replaced with those hard ones these days, which always appear less luxurious and less comfortable? Among the various other factors behind its rejection, allergy is worth mentioning. The absence of weaving structure in the feather filling of these luxurious bedding and mattresses attract the dust mites to stick on to the same easily and create a breeding ground there. On the contrary, the tightly woven modern bedding discourage the growth of dust mites in between them.
3. Pets are your friends not foes
It is often said that one of the major catalysts behind the outbreak of allergies are the pets that we have in our homes. The soft, furry coats of these pets attract allergens and that pass on to us, causing allergy. But, you must understand that it is not the pets that are culprit, but you who have not been careful about maintenance of your pet. Regular cleaning of their coats will discourage the growth of allergens and you will never get affected in the process too. Rather, a recent research shows that those who subject their kids to be in contact with pets by the age of three are found to make the kids less prone to allergy.
4. Milk can cause allergy
Although this might appear as the most threatening statement for majority of mothers, but milk does cause allergy. While you run after your toddler everyday to make him or her drink milk, have you ever noticed if the child suffers from any allergy from milk? Milk allergy is due to the presence of lactose, a natural sugar. Some people are unable to digest this and thus, suffer from bloating, gas, abdominal cramps and diarrhea. So, next time your kid complains of stomach ache after drinking milk, take it seriously.
5. Nickel allergy can be harmful
Nickel can cause allergy as well. Now, you might think that you are saved as you do not get in contact with this metal at all. But, if you have a closer look at your pair of jeans you will find that the closure is made from nickel. Similarly, your eyeglass, jewelry, the buckle of your belt, the eyelets of your casual shirt, all can have nickel plating. Most surprisingly, allergy due to nickel affects people in a ratio, one woman in seven men.
6. Your warm woolens can harm you
You can always consider woolens the best thing to protect you in the harsh winters. But have a look at the other side of the story too. Wool is the most prickly natural fiber that can cause itching, temporary inflammation and reddening. Eczema patients see the worst conditions when they wear woolens. So, never wear woolens next to your skin.
7. Wine might not please your guest
You might be startled to know that a bottle of expensive wine is always not the right thing to treat your guest with. People sensitive to fermented products can have severe allergic reactions to wine too that may lead to severe headache, flushing and migraine attacks.
